What is Red Team?

The Red Team, or the concept of Red Teaming represents an advanced methodology for assessing the robustness of IT system security through simulations of cybersecurity attacks. Whether using an external team specialized in penetration testing (internal, external and physical) or mobilizing internal resources, the objective remains the same: to faithfully embody the strategies of a malicious adversary by detecting security flaws and putting an organization's defenses and incident management processes to the test.

Red Team: definition

The Red Team embodies “a specialized force” in the field of penetration testing and ethical hacking, dedicated to the detection and prevention of cyberattacks. This team operates in the role of a malicious adversary, striving to discover and exploit weak points and backdoors within IT systems. Often made up of specialists from outside the organization, it brings a fresh perspective, ignoring pre-established defensive measures. The Red Team's objective is defined in advance with the organization.

To achieve optimum efficiency, the Red Team needs to master all the tactics, techniques and procedures that a real attacker might use. This attack simulation process is essential to enable the company to accurately assess the robustness of its security mechanisms and adjust its defenses accordingly.

On the organizational side, few people are aware of the Red Team's involvement. This is to test the defensive teams technically, but also sometimes in terms of communications and organization.

Red Team VS Blue Team: what's the difference?

Like the Red Team, the Blue Team plays a role in identifying vulnerabilities in IT systems. That said, its main mission is to improve and strengthen existing defense mechanisms. And unlike the Red Team, the Blue Team has in-depth knowledge of the security strategies already in place, and is dedicated to the ongoing analysis of suspicious activity.

Red Team: who's it for?

The Red Team is particularly beneficial for organizations that are already mature in terms of cybersecurity. The latter often have in-house teams dedicated to cybersecurity, and are well advanced in their information systems security strategy. For these organizations, the Red Team offers an opportunity to proactively evaluate their security defenses by simulating real-life attacks. It enables them to strengthen their cybersecurity posture and prepare effectively for emerging threats.

In addition, Red Teaming exercises provide valuable information on specific vulnerabilities and security gaps that can be used to improve the organization's defense policies, procedures and technologies.